Joey Barton will not be allowed to play for Newcastle when they travel to Anfield next month because of court restrictions on him.

The bad-boy midfielder, who faces a charge of assault and common affray for an incident that happened outside a fast food restaurant in the early hours of December 27, cannot face Liverpool under the conditions set for his bail.

And he could yet go on to miss Newcastle's game at his boyhood heroes Everton if his case is adjourned.

Barton is not allowed to play games in Merseyside as part of the bail conditions that were set on his release from Liverpool prison on January 3.

Newcastle boss Kevin Keegan said: "The only games he can't play are at Liverpool and Everton, because of the restrictions the judge has put on him.

"Other than that, his training is really good, I'm really pleased with his attitude. This week in particular, it's been outstanding."

Barton was twice refused bail by Liverpool magistrates but Judge David Swift, sitting in chambers at Liverpool Crown Court, later agreed bail.

However only now can the fine details of Barton's bail be revealed. He is due back in court on March 12, but that could be put back.